MACON, Ga. (AP) — Friends were mourning the death of former Georgia state Sen. Robert Brown, the fiery leader of the chamber's Democrats for six years, who was found dead at his home Thursday.

Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed said Brown cared about working-class people and issues such as education, healthcare and job creation not only in Macon, but throughout the state.

Democratic Party of Georgia Chairman Mike Berlon said he was a valiant fighter for education and opportunity for all Georgians. Former House Democratic Leader DuBose Porter said "Georgia lost a good man."

Macon police said the 61-year-old Brown was found at his home Thursday with a single gunshot wound to the head. Police said his death was an apparent suicide.

An autopsy was planned for Friday. There was no immediate information on funeral arrangements.